Liberty vs. Delaware Prediction: Week 5 Odds, Picks & Best Bet
My best Liberty vs. Delaware prediction focuses on Delaware's rush defense taking on Liberty's run-first offense. Below, I explain why I think Delaware actually has the advantage in this matchup, especially since the Blue Hens have been so good at forcing fumbles this season.
With the status of Delaware quarterback Nick Minicucci unknown, Liberty is favored by 7.5 points ahead of Friday's 7 p.m. ET game at Delaware Stadium in Newark, Del. The game will air on CBSSN and stream on Paramount+.
🏈 Liberty vs. Delaware picks & predictions
See all of our experts' college football picks for Week 5 based on the latest college football odds.
| Pick | Bet size |
|---|---|
| ATS: Delaware +7.5 (-112 via BetMGM) | 1.5 units to win 1.34 units |
| O/U: Under 49.5 (-110 via DraftKings) | 1 unit to win 0.91 units |
Total wagered: 2.5 units | Max profit: 2.25 units
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💰 Liberty vs. Delaware prediction & best bet
Check out all of our college football predictions for more analysis across this week's slate.
Delaware +7.5 (-112 via BetMGM)
Last week, Liberty rushed for 263 yards against Coastal Carolina, averaging 5.8 yards per carry. While that performance was impressive, I don't expect it to be replicated against Delaware's 33rd-ranked rushing defense.
Despite playing two road games against Power 4 teams, Delaware is allowing just 100.5 rushing yards per game. Delaware's rush defense also ranks 25th in yards allowed per carry, allowing just 2.89 per rush. This is going to be a problem for a Liberty offense that ranks 66th in yards per carry this season.
If Liberty is forced to rely more on Deshawn Purdie's arm, I don't expect the results to be positive. He and the Liberty offense rank 80th in passing yards per game, and his accuracy has been a serious issue, as he's completing just 58.8% of his passes.
📡 SBR Edge
Delaware's most recent opponent, Virginia, currently ranks 37th in rushing yards per game. Delaware held the Cavaliers to just 119 yards and 2.9 yards per carry.
Can Liberty hold onto the ball?
Liberty and Delaware each enter this game with a +1 turnover margin for the season. However, what is so shocking about this stat is that Purdie hasn't thrown an interception all year. All five of Liberty's turnovers have been fumbles.
Unfortunately for the Liberty rushers, this is a nightmare matchup for them. Delaware has recovered five fumbles this season, which is tied for the third-most in the country. They've recovered at least one in every single game this season.
Score prediction: Liberty 27 Delaware 21
📊 Liberty vs. Delaware live odds
See the latest college football odds for every Week 5 matchup.
Liberty vs. Delaware opening odds
- Moneyline: Liberty -285 | Delaware +230
- Spread: Liberty -7 (-110) | Delaware -7 (-110)
- Over/Under: Over 50.5 (-110) | Under 50.5 (-110)
📺 How to watch Liberty vs. Delaware: Week 5
- Date: Friday, Oct. 2
- Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Delaware Stadium (Newark, Del.)
- TV: CBSSN
- Streaming: Paramount+
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Sportsbook Review may receive a commission if you sign up through our links. Not intended for use in MA. Bonuses not applicable in Ontario. 21+ only. (Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER)
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